Last season in the Ranji Trophy, Saurashtra produced some epic performance’s with the ball. Ravindra Jadeja, the local boy, picked up five-wicket hauls in three consecutive matches in Rajkot. But at first look, the pitch had a green top. Green which helps pacers.

The first Test between India and England in Rajkot is similar. Green. But will it behave like it did in Ranji Trophy? It may as India will look to bank upon the advantage of spin at home. And win toss, bat first the key.

Virat Kohli lost his first toss at home and India lost it for the first time since 2013 at home. England captain Alastair Cook had no problems deciding to bat first. Virat Kohli didn’t mind.

India are going in with three spinners – R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Amit Mishra – which means it will turn later. England have also gone in with thee spinners. India left out Ishant Sharma and picked up Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav in the pace department. This may be for the reverse swing Umesh Yadav can produce with the old ball.

With England playing five left-handers, Ashwin will be rejoicing it. Mishra, on the other hand, has a chance to prove himself in the longer format. He has done it in the past as well.